A BOURNEMOUTH councillor has called for police patrols to be stepped up in Boscombe West following a terrifying robbery.

Ward councillor Phil Stanley-Watts lives near an alleyway, between Hamilton Close and St Clements Road, where a 34-year-old man was knocked unconscious and suffered serious facial injuries.

The Daily Echo revealed yesterday how the victim had been set upon by two men at around 10.10 pm on Sunday, March 20. His attackers fled with his blue denim jacket, £50 in cash and a mobile phone.

Cllr Stanley-Watts said he had been shocked by the attack, adding: “I’ve asked the police to step up patrols in the area.

“The alleyway where these thugs struck is normally very quiet and I’ve never witnessed any trouble. A crime like this is thankfully a very rare occurrence because the neighbourhood team do such a good job.”

He added: “I often see police patrolling the streets but I think we need a greater presence to reassure local residents who will be very worried for their own safety after what has happened.”

Police are appealing for information that could lead to the arrest of the attackers who are both white and aged between 25 and 30.

One was wearing a dark ski jacket and a light blue baseball cap. His accomplice is slim and was wearing a white hooded top.

The victim was treated at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital for suspected permanent eye damage.

• Witnesses should phone 01202 222222, quoting reference number 24:181, or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800555111.